Press Kit

RENAULT 4 – 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
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Renault Histoire & Collection
Contents
The Renault 4 in brief

- The Renault 4 celebrates its 50th anniversary
- Renault 4 profile
- Brief Renault 4 timeline
- Limited editions and special versions
The Renault 4 in detail

Chapter 1: The blue jeans car
Chapter 2: An international calling
Chapter 3: Renault 4 production across the world
Chapter 4: The Renault 4 takes over track
Chapter 5: Thirty years of evolutions
Appendices:
Appendix 1: - The Renault 4 at the cinema and on TV

- The Renault 4 and the arts
Appendix 2: - Books about the Renault 4
Appendix 3: - Advertising films
Appendix 4: - The Renault 4 vehicles in the Renault Collection
Appendix 5: - Calendar of events (2011)
Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

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In brief...
The Renault 4 celebrates its 50th anniversary
As the third bestselling model in automobile history1 and the bestselling French car across
the world with sales in excess of eight million units in more than 100 countries, the Renault
4 has become a motoring icone. In 2011, Renault will be celebrating its 50th anniversary
which provides the brand's Histoire & Collection department with a first class opportunity
to stage and take part in a long list of major events. A car has been entered for January's
historic Rallye Monte-Carlo, for example, and the model is due to star at February's
Rétromobile classic car show in Paris. It will also receive red carpet treatment at the third
4L International event which will visit the Loire Valley chateaux in July.
La Renault 4 was the fruit of a concept. In 1956, Pierre Dreyfus, then president of the Régie
Nationale des Usines Renault, launched the notion of a "blue jeans" car. Like the now-familiar
article of clothing which is worn the world over, he wanted to produce a versatile, inexpensive car
with a worldwide calling which could match the changes in society that were being observed as the
1960s approached.
Following a five-year incubation period, the Renault 4, the make's first front-wheel drive passenger
car, was unveiled to the press before going on display at the 1961 Paris Motor Show. A van and
three saloon versions were launched simultaneously: the R3, which was dropped from the
catalogue the following year, the R4 and the R4L (the "L" standing for luxury), soon to become the
household name for a model that lost no time in finding a place in the French public's hearts.
Its unrivalled interior, low running costs and ability to adapt to all types of use made it an instant hit.
Just six years after its launch, Renault 4 production exceeded the million mark, and other records
were broken as the car reached a total production figure of 8,135,424 in the course of its 31-year
career.
1 Cars no longer in production, after the Volkswagen Coccinelle and the Ford Model T.

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The Renault 4 was just as successful outside of France and was produced or assembled in no
fewer than 27 countries (in addition to France), some as far afield as Australia, South Africa, Chile
and the Philippines. Indeed, six in ten sales were outside of Renault's home market.
During the long period when it was available for sale, the Renault 4 was made in several different
versions, including a van, a four-wheel drive vehicle and a cabriolet. Other variants, such as the
Rodeo, and a long list of limited editions were also released, the best known of which in France
were the Parisienne (1963), the Safari (1975), the Jogging (1981) and the Sixties (1985).
Meanwhile, the model benefited from its own off-road racing championship and was a favourite
means of transport for young people itching to explore the planet. It was also seen on such
celebrated motorsport events as the Rallye Monte-Carlo and the Paris-Dakar. It even finished the
celebrated African rally-raid on the podium one year.
In 1992, a numbered special edition farewell version – "Bye-Bye" – was released to salute the
incredible success of the model, which continued to be manufactured in Slovenia and Morocco,
until 1994, although only in small numbers.
To celebrate the model's 50th anniversary, Renault plans to stage or take part in a long list of
important events over 2011. The main dates in its diary are:
The Modulo 4 Exhibition

This travelling exhibition will take in a number of different automotive events in 2011, from the
Rétromobile classic car show in Paris, to the World Séries by Renault, the Autoworld Museum in
Brussels and the French national motor museum in Mulhouse, etc. Put together by Renault's
Histoire & Collection department, it stars 13 cars that epitomise the R4's history and qualities.
Three Renault 4s on the 2011 historic Rallye Monte-Carlo

As a tribute to the works Renault 4 entries for the 1962 and 1963 Montes, the Histoire & Collection
department has prepared three Renault 4s for the forthcoming historic Rallye Monte-Carlo
(January 27-February 2). These three cars have been entirely stripped and rebuilt like all top rally
cars. They have been equipped to tackle the challenges of the 2,500km route in the hands of
drivers Jean Ragnotti, Manu Guigou and Michel Duvernay.

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Rétromobile classic car show (Paris)

The Renault 4's 50th anniversary celebrations will also allow Renault to make a splash at the
Rétromobile classic car show which takes place at the Porte de Versailles complex in Paris
(February 2-7, 2011). Visitors to the 700 sq. metre stand will be able to discover or rediscover the
dozen or so Renault 4s that star in the travelling Modulo 4 exhibition. Renault 4 Miss Sixty will also
be on show (see below).
4L International meeting
For the third year running, the 4L International meeting will enable fans from across Europe, and
even further afield, to gather in Thenay, Loir-et-Cher, France, on July 15-17, 2011. Since its
creation by 4L Magazine, this event has benefited from the backing of Renault's Histoire &
Collection department, and the 50th anniversary festivities will naturally add a special flavour to this
year's rally which is expected to attract several thousand enthusiasts. A prize draw will be
organised to give participants a chance to win the Renault 4 that Jean Ragnotti will drive on the
2011 historic Rallye Monte-Carlo.
Renault 4 Miss Sixty

The Renault 4 Miss Sixty echoes the name of the high street fashion brand Miss Sixty, as well as
the blue jeans dear to Pierre Dreyfus. It also refers to the limited edition Twingo of the same name
that was unveiled at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. The Renault 4 Miss Sixty is a one-off car
designed by Renault's design team in association with Miss Sixty, and produced by Renault
Histoire & Collection as part of the model's half-century celebrations.
It is based on a 1965 Renault 4L and features a specific body colour and bespoke decals on the
boot, rear left wing and two of its wheels, as well as specific rear lights and an interior trimmed in
grey denim with pink stitching and embroidered patterns.
Media contact:
Christophe Deville, Renault Press:
+33 1 76 84 64 83
www.media.renault.com, www.renault.com

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Renault 4 Profile
Project launch:
• 1956.
Project name:
• Project 112.
• In-house, the project was nicknamed "350" in reference to the price listed in the brief (350,000
Francs).
First public appearances:

• Press: August 1961 in France's Camargue region.
• General public: October 1961 at the Paris Motor Show.
Number of countries where the model was manufactured/assembled:

• 28 countries (including France).
Number of countries where the model was marketed:

• More than 100.
End of production:
• December 3, 1992, Renault announced the end of the Renault 4 in a press release; only two
factories would continue to produce the Renault 4 after that date and through 1994: Morocco and
Slovenia.
Total number of vehicles produced:

• Official figure: 8,135,424
• The Renault 4 is the world's third best-selling vehicle2 after the Volkswagen Beetle and Ford
Model T.
Names and nicknames of the Renault 4

• In Italy, the JP4 was marketed under the name "Frog".
• In Spain, it was nicknamed "Cuatro Latas" (four boxes).
• In the former Yugoslavia, it was called "Katcra" (Catherine).
• In Tunisia, it was referred to as the "R4 Monastir", after the hometown of President Bourguiba.
• In Southern Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), it was nicknamed the Noddy Car.
• In Argentina, it earned the nickname "El Correcaminos" (path runner).
• In Finland, it became "Tiparellu" (droplet).
• A one-make racing series: Coupe de France Renault Cross Elf (1974 until 1984).
• The main engines used for the R4: 603cc, 747cc, 782cc, 845cc, 956cc and 1,108cc
2 Models no longer in production.

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Brief Renault 4 timeline
1956 Pierre Dreyfus, President of the Régie Nationale des Usines Renault, launches his project
for the blue jean car.
1959 Prototypes of the future Renault 4 crisscross the roads of the world. From the U.S.A. to
Sweden, via Sardinia and Guinea, the test cars are put through their paces in extreme
driving conditions.
1961 (July 6): The last 4CV rolls out of the Billancourt plant. All of its tooling is dismantled to
make room for the assembly lines for the new Renault 4.
1961 (August): Presentation of the Renault 4 and the Renault 3 to the press in France's
Camargue region.
1961 (October): The first public appearance of the new Renault 4 at the Paris Motor Show
(Grand Palais).
1965 The R4 officially becomes the Renault 4.
1966 Launch of Renault's "Les Routes du Monde" operation (ended in 1984).
1967 Production reaches almost 370,000 units per year as the Renault 4 becomes France's best-
selling French car. September saw the addition of the large aluminium grille.
1974 (September): introduction of the plastic grille.
1977 Renault 4 sales reach the five-million mark (all versions and body types included). Renault
becomes Europe's biggest car manufacturer.
1980 The Renault 4 claims third place on the Paris-Dakar Rally in the hands of the Marreau
brothers.
1985 The threshold of seven million Renault 4 sales is exceeded.
1988 The Renault 4 bids farewell to the German market with the "Salü" limited edition (500 units)
after 27 years of success and more than 900,000 cars imported. The van version is
dropped from the French catalogue.
1992 The last 1,000 Renault 4 cars leave the Billancourt plant. The GTL Clan versions will have
the distinction of featuring a commemorative plaque on the instrument panel which reads
"Bye-Bye".
On 3rd December, Renault announces the official end of the Renault 4's career. Only two
countries would continue to produce the model after that date (until 1994): Morocco and
Slovenia.
Total Renault 4 production units exceeded the 8,130,000 mark.

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Limited editions and special versions
1963 Sinpar four-wheel drive versions (until the end of production)
1963 Parisienne
1968 Plein Air
1970 Rodeo, an R4 derivative manufactured by ACL
1975 Safari limited edition
1981 JP4, an R4 derivative produced by CAR Système

Jogging special edition (5,000 vehicles)
1982 Shopping limited edition (300 vehicles, produced in Belgium)
1985 Sixties limited edition (2,200 vehicles)
1988 Salü career-ending special edition version for the German market (500 vehicles)
1991 Cartes Jeunes limited edition
1992 Bye-Bye career-ending special edition version for the French market (1,000 vehicles)

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Chapter 1
Renault 4, the "blue jeans" car

The so-called "blue jeans" car, which marked a fresh approach to the automobile as pioneered by
the visionary Pierre Dreyfus, gave birth to the iconic Renault 4 which has demonstrated the
relevance of this leap forward for 50 years as one of the most produced models in the industry's
history.
An off-the-peg range
Design work for the Renault 4 began in 1949 with Project 109, a direct, more spacious and slightly
more powerful descendant of the 4 CV. However, its incubation was a slow process and, in
September 1952, the design team began to explore an alternative solution to replace the 4 CV,
focusing on two essential conditions. First of all, it had to be four-seater with similar performance
and fuel consumption characteristics to those of the 4 CV. Secondly, its retail price was set at
300,000 Francs. Renault's market research department insisted on the necessity of producing
several versions, including a popularly-priced saloon, a semi-utility version and a van.
This guiding principle drove the engineers to the conclusion that the 4 CV's architecture –
especially its rear-mounted engine – was not suited to a van. To solve this issue of producing three
versions, Fernand Picard explored the idea of creating a platform-type chassis with an as-yet
vague notion of interchangeable bodies. The idea of a monocoque structure – seen as necessary
to minimise body weight and production costs – was dropped. Instead, a revolutionary approach to
body design saw the light of day, giving customers the possibility to specify the configuration of
their vehicle at the dealership! This off-the-peg approach led to Renault's dealers fitting elements
that distinguished between the saloon, semi-van and van models as a function of the customer's
wishes. The concept even permitted owners to have a choice of configurations in their garage, and
also made it potentially possible to create a body rental system or a standard exchange
programme for new and used models! All these ideas were explored, especially since the
emergence of plastic materials made this à la carte system of body types a realistic option. The
other key factory was the choice of powertrain, with Picard insisting on a system that "should be
removable and interchangeable, which essentially means front-wheel."
It was only in 1954 that Pierre Lefaucheux gave the green light for the project that would go on to
be the Dauphine in 1956. This is also when the 1952 preliminary project moved on to the design
phase under the name Project 112; the objective being to replace the 4 CV!
"Give me space!"
The accidental death of Pierre Lefaucheux on February 11, 1955, and the appointment of Pierre as
to the head of the Régie Renault on March 27 had a very big impact on the project to replace the 4
CV. As a high-ranking civil servant at France's Ministry of Industrial Production and Vice-President
of the Régie since 1948, Dreyfus knew Renault inside and out. On January 2, 1956, Dreyfus hired
Yves Georges to work in the design department with Picard. More than a confrontation between a
young Polytechnique graduate and an experienced engineer from Arts & Métiers, this appointment
reflected a more scientific approach to research with the accent on calculation work and planning
rather than pragmatism and testing.
While Picard relegated himself to a lesser role, Georges and Dreyfus undertook a fertile
collaboration, reconciling and synthesising the theoretically different ideas of the intellectual and
the engineer. Dreyfus approached automobiles with the eye and analytical framework of a
sociologist. Dreyfus said he was struck by the fact that Renault sold cars "for urban dwellers only"

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– city cars, in sum – whereas Citroën was making cars for the rural population. Dreyfus also
questioned the conformity of automobiles, to the point of actively going against the trend: "Cars
should no longer just be seats and a trunk. Give me space," he instructed Georges.
Dreyfus wanted a car that was suited to the needs of a fast-changing society, not only in France
but also in the countries that would soon form the six-nation Common Market. People everywhere
were leaving the countryside behind in a vast movement in which modernity began with rural
exodus. These new urbanites did not settle in the town centres; but headed instead for new urban
districts that were starting to expand and morph into suburbs. It was a new world where the
population was becoming increasingly active and a new middle class was burgeoning. Suburbs
became a new place, part urban and part rural, a halfway house between the city and the country.
The movement was perfectly anticipated by Dreyfus: it was the end of city cars being dramatically
different from country cars; the time had come to invent versatile models, although this notion
wasn't restricted to cabin space. The onslaught of built-up areas and the lack of public transport
networks saw automobiles begin to play a prominent role. They needed to be workhorses from
Monday to Friday, but then fulfil the leisure requirements of families on weekends and during
holidays. There was one final development – a slow but significant one which became more
pronounced over the years: the role of women in society. With full employment, the addition of a
second income shook up social categories and family models. It also sped up consumption,
including car consumption. The product was duly adopted by women: not only did the number of
driving licenses finally start to balance out between the sexes, but women also began using
automobiles, which led to them playing a decisive role in their purchase.
For Dreyfus, cars of the future would be increasingly versatile, for use in the country and the city,
during the working week and at the weekend, for work and play, and for men and women. This is
where the notion of the "blue jeans car" would take on its full meaning.
The blue jeans car and technical revolution

The blue jeans car broke with conventions just like its namesake "which people can wear in any
situation if you do away with the pretentions of snobbism and social conformity," observed Dreyfus.
"Jeans are an article of clothing which you can wear to do anything, anywhere. On top of that, they
are not expensive and are easily replaced. Work jeans were made from indestructible denim cloth
which was also used for the overalls distributed to New Deal workers in the United States, as well
as for casual trousers which would prove popular with students and artists before becoming a
staple in women's wardrobes. More rebellious than revolutionary, both unisex and egalitarian,
jeans were as much the uniform of James Dean and Marlon Brando as the preferred bottoms of
the hippies who co-opted them with personal touches like embroidery and bell bottoms.
The automobile world would have its own jeans. Pierre Dreyfus, revisiting Project 112 in 1956,
would be the one to name their price. It would be 350,000 Francs and not a centime more! The
message was so clear that the designers started to call the project the "350". It goes without saying
that designing a new car round a price tag was a highly unusual method at the time. This
imperative begat the idea of carrying over the Dauphine's 747cc engine and gearbox. Interior
fittings would be sparse: the 350 was going to be inexpensive because of what it did not have.
Design embellishments weren't a priority. Dreyfus himself defined the limits: the 350 should be less
ugly than its direct rival, but not nearly as appealing as the Dauphine.
To make the car versatile, the first idea was the flat floor, which facilitated loading. This naturally
led to three other features: the lack of a rear end panel, an extremely low sill and a "back entrance"
which would go on to be known as a tailgate. This startlingly new architecture shook up the
technical culture at Renault (coming right after the launch of the Estafette van in 1959, the Renault

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4 was the first front-wheel drive saloon from Renault) and, more generally, the automobile industry
as a whole. In fact, Renault was inventing the two-volume vehicle with an engine compartment and
a combined cabin/boot. The interior space could then evolve according to the needs of the moment
by folding the rear bench seat to convert the family car into a van, or vice-versa.
In response to the call for a car that was as sturdy, go-everywhere and indestructible as denim
cloth, Renault opted for independent torsion bar suspensions which offer generous travel, making it
possible to drive on dirt roads or trunk roads. While jeans required no pressing, the 350 would
have no maintenance demands either: no more lubrication points and water levels to monitor
(thanks to the creation of a sealed cooling circuit). With its expansion chamber (a Renault
innovation) to collect the excess liquid dilated at hot temperatures, the cooling system worked as a
closed circuit to prevent losses and do away with the need for topping up. This freed Renault 4
owners from worrying about the fluid level; the added bonus was that they no longer had to add
antifreeze in the winter. This also meant the end of lubrication concerns because the joints were
protected by air-tight bellows. At a time when many automobiles still required lengthy maintenance
routines, the new Renault heralded the era of hassle-free cars...
Marie Chantal sends her regards

Since the Auto Journal affair and the hunt for DS prototypes, car manufacturers conducted their
tests under a veil of extreme secrecy. The cars were sent to locations as far away as possible with
myriad precautions. Louis Buty's testing team was responsible for taking the Renault 4 prototypes
to the four corners of the earth to test their sturdiness and fine-tune their design. To avoid raising
suspicion, inside and outside the plant, it was agreed that the car would be referred to as "Marie
Chantal". This yielded laconic telegrammes such as "Marie Chantal and the kids send their best
wishes to their parents" dispatched from remote lands without any allusions to testing work or
incidents along the way.
And yet there was no shortage of adventures. The most famous would definitely have to be the
episode in which Pierre Dreyfus sent the Renault 4 plunging to the bottom of a ravine in Sardinia.
This incident, which could have been serious, was concealed from the entire Renault staff and
forced Louis Buty, Pierre Dreyfus's unlucky passenger, to invent a colourful story about an
accident in Italy to explain the numerous stitches on his face and his slipped disc. Pierre Dreyfus
set the public record straight a few years later when he awarded him the French National Order of
Merit.
"Take the wheel!"

In June 1961, a caravan of tarp-covered trucks carried prototypes of the future Renault 4
throughout France to present the newest addition to the family to dealers in the Renault network.
Several meetings were held at the rate of one per commercial zone; each time a private facility
was rented with security provided by the Gendarmerie! The 3,500 brand representatives received a
comprehensive file which presented the car inside and out. As for the general public, it was a
whole other Renault that visitors encountered at the Paris Auto Show which, at the time, was still
held in the grandiose Grand Palais.
In parallel to the exhibition a major promotional operation hit the streets of Paris: "Take the wheel".
Some 200 Renault 4 cars were made available to motorists who wanted to test drive it. The event
was a success with nearly 60,000 Parisians taking turns at the wheel to get to know this brand new
car. It was new for its shape, for the technical solutions it employed and, most especially, for the
concept it promoted: urban but not snobby, utilitarian but not rough. The new Renault 4, offered in
four versions (R3, R4, R4L, R4L Super Confort), was able to adapt to any setting and any
lifestyle...

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The 4L generations
Produced from 1961 to 1992, the Renault 4, today generally referred to using the generic name 4L,
accompanied three generations of customers, which were obviously different and varied just like
blue jeans themselves, which transitioned from working tools to a symbol of youth before becoming
widely worn trousers. Throughout the 1960s, Renault 4 owners were buyers won over by its two-
box design and unparalleled interior space. It was a daring choice that saw Renault steer away
from the 4 CV replacement market. The brand set a new tone, retaining nothing but the product's
rustic appeal: the Renault 4 exuded simplicity thanks to its modest equipment and far from-dull
colours, features which helped it achieve a competitive retail price.
Like Levis jeans, the little Renault came with numbers, R3 or R4, which provided a way to better
adapt to customer practices and offer slightly different cuts: the R3 and its absolute minimalism
with just four windows or the R4 and its guaranteed sobriety, but with additional side windows to
evoke a limousine (in theory)! The R4 Super represented the Billancourt version of luxury, with a
rear tailgate which opened downward and a rear window designed to slide into the tailgate. From
common origins to customisation.
The Renault 4 established the concept of cars as working instruments. White or grey for skilled
contractors, dark blue for the Gendarmerie, sky blue for EDF-GDF and bright yellow for the postal
service: the Renault 4 wore the colours of its employers without undermining its hardworking spirit,
much like blue jeans which, thanks to their sturdiness, began to replace canvas overalls and
coveralls at work sites. But in 1963, it added a Parisienne version: black jeans with wicker
patterned pockets, the last touch of versatility to ensure women finally had a car of their own.
The next generation was the 1970s. Access to automobiles slowly opened up to young people,
boys and girls alike in the unisex spirit that defined the times. The Renault 4 was liberated. More
than ever, the Renault 4 remained the blue jean car. The always-in-style jeans were also shifting
from indigo blue to faded hues. And the rate of change gathered speed. As the former default
worker's garment was festooned with peace and love embroidered symbols and bell bottoms, the
Renault 4 became the cult car of a curious, different young generation of carefree hippies. The
mood was expressed in song by Michel Fugain and his Big Bazard band to the tune of "C'est la
Fête". It was rich symbolism which foreshadowed the lifestyle car.
The Renault 4 of the 1980s stayed true to the image of jeans, worn by the young and the less
young, men and women, at work and at play, regardless of the season and the country. The
democratisation of the Renault 4 kept pace with jeans as they became commonplace—or even
universal. The Renault 4 was no one's car because it was everyone's car: it crossed all age groups
and social categories and adapted to every culture. A global car, but not referred to as such
because the word did not yet exist! And because denim pairs with a variety of looks, the Renault 4
also mixed things up with its new series. It was inspired by pleasure (Safari), environmentalism
(GTL), fashion (Jogging, Sixties), youth (Carte Jeunes) and even history (Bye-Bye)!
But the story ended in 1992. Nearly two decades later, the Renault 4 is still a feature in the
automobile landscape, where there is a purpose or a passion for everyone: very active clubs are
flourishing all around the globe and the numerous surviving models are restored, modified, entered
in rallies (including the quintessential 4L Trophy) or simply used every day by several generations
of "trelleurs".
The 4L has become a timeless cult favourite. The blue jeans of the car world!

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Chapter 2
Renault 4, an international calling
Pierre Dreyfus drove the point home as soon as he became President of the Renault Board in
March 1956: the company should eventually export 50% of its production. In the short term,
Renault used the brand's latest model, the Dauphine, to conquer foreign markets. It was a
success, despite a disappointing commercial adventure in the United States. The Renault 4, where
Pierre Dreyfus's influences were very visible, was intentionally designed to drive this international
ambition, becoming Renault's weapon of conquest. But on one condition: that its innovative
concept please the market. "It is obvious that we must sell the Renault 4 abroad; that is one of the
essential goals of this model," announced Pierre Dreyfus in October 1961.
The R4 in the Common Market

Pierre Dreyfus had a sense of history. He was a committed European who had completed some of
his studies outside France and understood the political and economic necessity of European
rapprochement. The signing of the Treaty of Rome in March 1957 was for him "a major event
capable of overcoming the errors of the past and inventing new philosophies" which gave birth on
1st January 1958, to the Common Market. Its implementation was gradual: over a 10-year period
customs duties were lowered by 10% each year among the six partners, France, Germany, Italy
and the three Benelux countries. Pierre Dreyfus was unequivocal: "It would be an honour for
Renault to extend beyond its borders and be a driving force in the construction of the Common
Market". The fact remained that such a change in markets required significant, costly efforts,
starting with a commercial introduction strategy. Distribution networks were not all at the same
level: Renault could only count on the Benelux countries in the immediate future. The brand had
been present in the Netherlands and Belgium since 1904 and 1908 respectively then it built sales
subsidiaries in 1922 and 1928 with the Agence Commerciale Belge des Automobiles Renault,
which also handled sales in Luxembourg, and the Afdelling Holland in The Hague.
The situation was less straightforward in Germany and Italy where the post-reconstruction phase
was complicated. Although Renault had established a sales subsidiary in Berlin in 1903, Renault
Automobiles AG, the division between West and East Germany turned the tables: Renault had to
reposition itself solely in West Germany and rebuild a network around a new subsidiary located in
Cologne in 1960 (and later moved to Brühl), still named Renault Automobil AG. Thus Renault's
reorganisation came somewhat late in the game, which meant all of its hopes were pinned on the
Dauphine and soon thereafter on the Renault 4 to make headway in a market largely dominated by
the Beetle. Renault was confident on this front because the Renault 4 was so different from the
Volkswagen that it was not in competition with it. That left Italy. With a very minor presence in Italy
because of Fiat's dominance, in 1958 the Board signed a collaboration agreement with Fiat's major
competitor, Torino-based Alfa Romeo. This company shared with Renault the status of a
nationalised manufacturer. The agreement was very ambitious because Alfa Romeo sellers would
sell Renault cars in Italy just as the Renault network in France would distribute Alfa Romeo. The
urge to take on Fiat even drove Alfa Romeo to offer up its plants to assemble the Dauphine, in
eager anticipation of the Renault 4, which had been presented to Alfa Romeo before its market
launch!
All of this explains that the Renault 4 arrived in October 1961 at a time when Renault was
structuring its commercial positions in the countries of the Common Market. The impact was
immediate. In 1962, Renault had a portfolio of 7,500 orders for the Renault 4 in France and nearly

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5,000 in Europe. Germany accounted for 1,400 cars, with an average order rate of 65 per day;
meanwhile 2,280 were expected for delivery in Italy with 80 orders per day. The Benelux countries
were also significant contributors with 90 combined orders per day. The rate of production at Île
Seguin had been set at 400 cars per day given the still incomplete tooling of the line, but it had to
quickly ramp up to 500 per day to satisfy the demands of a Europe that was visibly the big market
for the Renault 4.
This market expanded with the democratisation of automobiles and the development of customer
bases, a structuring element in the 1960s and 1970s. This market took full advantage of full
employment and salary increases, as well as the emergence of the middle class and the
emergence throughout Europe of a young generation for whom escape and travel were a way of
life. The Renault 4's markets then benefited from the expansion of the EEC to Denmark, Ireland
and the United Kingdom and later to Greece, Portugal and Spain. Renault even managed to break
into the tightly sealed Eastern Europe which was nevertheless accessible thanks to the goodwill of
Yugoslavian authorities which consented to import the Renault 4 and later even to manufacture
them and sell a few units in its neighbour countries.
From exports to local assembly

The Renault 4 won over customers in the Mediterranean countries with Italy leading the way.
Renault's growth was impressive because the brand achieved a market penetration rate of 3.8%
by the end of 1962, which was equal to the shares of Alfa Romeo and Lancia. But Alfa Romeo
refused to step up production of the Renault 4 and decided to create a second distribution network
to separate its customers from those seeking to buy the Renault 4. Renault had to hastily train
small garage owners who were frightened by the ins and outs of modern sales and after-sales
processes. Moreover, legislation introduced in 1963 drastically reduced sales: they fell from 100 to
40 per day. Lawmakers approved a new tax calculated according to a car's length and footprint!
Suddenly, the tax on the Renault 4 rocketed from 30,000 lires, which was originally equal to the tax
on the Fiat 500 and 600 models, to 62,000 lires! Renault tried to persuade the Italian government
that a 4L produced by Alfa Romeo which, moreover, was manufactured in a plant owned by the
government's industrial holding company, was an Italian car and that this legislation was harmful to
the nation's economy. But nothing changed and a divorce was inevitable. Here Europe revealed
itself, shedding light on the complexity of a union in a competitive environment as well as the
challenge of overseas assembly. Nevertheless, this was indeed the industrial solution that Renault
would have to explore for the future because many countries limited their imports to force auto
makers to assemble their cars in-country.
This was notably the case for Spain, where automobile imports were strictly prohibited. But Renault
was lucky because it got started there in 1953 with the construction of a factory in Valladolid,
FASA. The Renault 4 became the car that would change the face of internationalisation for
Renault.
The Renault 4 was first assembled with the industrial mechanism in place, which ensured that the
Dauphine could be built in Spain. Its success was such that Renault had to quickly consider new
solutions in terms of sheet metal and engine plants. A development plan was implemented to
create a mechanical company, FACSA, and a bodywork company, FAMESA. The financial
constraints involved forced Renault to request support from Banco Iberico and to call on its Swiss
financial subsidiary, Renault Holding, to provide 200 million pesetas between 1964 and 1965.
While the event enabled Renault to take financial control of FASA, more important was the fact that
it forced the manufacturer to copy the industrial tool that had been put in place in France. FASA
became a full-fledged component of the production system just like the Belgian plant in Haren

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which also began making the Renault 4. The success of the 4L redrew the borders of Renault and
foreshadowed the outline of the future Europe.
A globalisation pioneer
Contrary to the forecasts made for Project 112, the Renault 4 met with success well beyond the
bounds of Europe. While the prototypes were tested on the hot African trails of Guinea and the
frozen roads of Minnesota, these efforts were intended more to seek out extreme conditions of use
than to prepare the Renault for these specific driving conditions. As early as 1961, Pierre Dreyfus
began asking the sales division about selling the Renault 4 in the United States. Opinions were so
divided that the decision was put off until 1962 when the idea of selling the Renault 4 in Canada
was about to become reality, knowing full well that a launch in Canada opened the door to the
United States! But for lack of an adequate after-sales network, the decision was again delayed.
It was in Latin America that the Renault 4 was wildly successful. From 1950 to 1967, Renault
adopted a very structured approach to developing its business on this continent, which it felt was
destined to become a single market, particularly when several countries negotiated the Andean
Pact, which would lead to the creation of Mercosur 30 years later. With Argentina, Chile, Brazil,
Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela, Renault had eight factories, which was reduced
to seven when the manufacturer had to exit Brazil in 1968. They covered all of this continent
whose customers were close to European, and especially Hispanic, culture, preferring to buy
something French rather than something American, if only to show their hostility to U.S.
imperialism. There were real political underpinnings, particularly as Renault announced in 1960 its
intention to build a plant in Cuba for the Renault 4 (the idea was quickly abandoned out of fear of
the consequences of having assets in Cuba at a time when Renault was shipping 500 Dauphines
per day to the United States)! Thanks to all these facilities, the Renault 4 was at the heart of an
industrial structure that was highly innovative because of its complementarity: Chile supplied
gearboxes to Colombia and Argentina, which in turn received bodywork parts from Chile. As for
Colombia, it handled all the universal joints for these models and manufactured engines; it shipped
them to Chile and Argentina, receiving gearboxes and bodywork parts in return. Renault pursued a
policy of shared development. It would grow its own sales first, but also foster growth in the
countries where the company did business. This was reflected in Renault's approach of entrusting
foreign plants with the production of important parts and components like engines and gearboxes.
This is precisely what the Americans refused to do in order to maintain control of their production
and keep a firm hand on faraway plants and economies. What remained was for the Renault 4 to
become a major presence in the South American automobile landscape with nearly 25% of the
model's global production!
The internationalisation of the Renault 4 revealed another facet of the brand and product's history.
The Renault 4 played a role in the development of young countries--the ones comprising the Third
World and the nations which emerged after decolonisation. Renault contributed to the
industrialisation of North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa by helping to build car plants, which were
the starting point for a broader industrialisation policy: this was the key to true independence.
Steelworks and mechanical, chemical or textile industries were all economic sectors that could
emerge once local businesses began fulfilling the role of automotive suppliers and subcontractors.
This model allowed Renault to have a presence in Algeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Madagascar, Morocco,
Tunisia and Zaire.
The political engagement does not hide other factors that were far more economic and financial.
For tax reasons, and particularly in an effort to limit import duties which were increasingly high in
the 1960s and 1970s, the Renault 4 was assembled or manufactured (meaning it used more or
fewer locally made components) by industrial firms working under contract. Therefore, in several

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countries the 4L was produced in independent plants and sometimes alongside vehicles from
competing brands. This was especially the case in the former British colonies of South Africa,
Australia and New Zealand.
These vastly different examples point to one common conclusion: before the word globalisation
even existed, the Renault 4 responded to common goals of mobility; the need for simple, practical
transportation solutions; and essential notions of cars as tools. The Renault 4 proved to be an
international car with a presence on every continent. There was perhaps one hold-out: the model's
presence in Asia was weak. It suffered from very strong local competition and the lack of a Renault
structural presence in this part of the world until the end of the 1980s, and perhaps an imperfect
adaptation to different markets where two- and three-wheels were the rule. Nevertheless, between
1961 and 1992, the Renault 4 became a blueprint for a global vision of automobiles, making it
recognisable across the world and even the symbol of a certain kind of know-how and attitude.

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Chapter 3
Renault 4 production across the world
At home everywhere
The new spearhead of Renault's international strategy was the Renault 4; could it really claim to be
the "universal car" that every manufacturer dreamed of?
Apparently, the answer was "yes" thanks to the impressive versatility embedded in its genes.
Moreover, its moderate price helped it reach all customer groups; its removable bodywork and
sturdy platform facilitated its transportation and changes to its body. These are the reasons why
the Renault 4 is the most produced French car (more than eight million units) and above all the
most distributed internationally.
Built and sold on all five continents

Depending on the location, the model's distribution took rather different forms. In Europe, the
Renault 4 was dispatched from the production site in completed form. For destinations further
afield, the cars were sent out in the form of CKD (completely knocked down) collections; they were
assembled locally, sometimes in very small units. Sometimes a manufacturing licence was granted
to the producing company, which was distinct from Renault. The authorities often defined an
"integration rate", a proportion of parts that had to be manufactured on site. The incomplete
assemblies or "small collections" were shipped, making it possible to create work for local industry.
The Renault 4 was assembled in 27 different countries—a record—and markets where it was not
sold were few and far between. Of every 10 cars sold, six were outside of France and five were
made abroad. Over the course of its life, the Renault 4 took on every task: taxis in Colombia or
Madagascar, police cars in Yugoslavia, shopping in Buenos Aires, ambulances in Mexico, mail
delivery in Denmark or roadside assistance in Spain.
The Renault 4 supported the company's export ambitions which were tirelessly promoted by Pierre
Dreyfus.
Renault 4 production outside France
Europe
Belgium
Present since 1922, Renault built a site close to Brussels in Haren: a storage hangar that in 1926
would become the company's first assembly plant outside France. Although modest at the time of
liberation, the assembly functions would eventually relocate to increasingly large facilities.
Beginning in 1958 the site found a purpose, which was to supply Benelux countries and other
European markets or even the booming American market. The plant, which became Renault
Industrie Belgique in 1971, manufactured more than one-tenth of the company's total production in
the 1970s.
The Renault 4 began rolling off Belgian production lines in 1961 and continued to do so through
1980. The local workforce's reputation was well established and it was "Belgian quality" Renault 4
cars that had the honour of serving certain demanding customers like Germany. For more than 15
years, the Renault 4—including the van—was the most produced car in Haren (the Renault 5
would surpass it in 1978) in addition to being a bestseller in Belgium. It was a part of the national

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automobile landscape: the Renault 4 was delivered to the roadside aid organisation Touring
Secours, the Gendarmerie, the postal service, the Telegraph and Telephone Company and so on.
Specific characteristics of Belgian versions:

Intended to meet demand in the EEC, the "made in Belgium" Renault 4 was hardly different from
the cars manufactured at the Île Seguin plant, except for the engine. However, in the 1970s, whilst
the "4 windows" version of the Renault 4 had been abandoned in France, a Renault 4 "B" saloon
version stayed on the Haren production line alongside the 4L with six windows; intended for
government agencies and fleets, it was confidentially distributed in France under the name
"Renault 4 Commerciale Grande Société". In Belgium, the "B" remained in the catalogue as a
passenger car alongside the 4 TL until the late 1980s. Furthermore, like other countries, Belgium
produced its own limited editions like the "Shopping", 350 units of which were released in the
spring of 1982.
Italy
In October 1958 Renault signed an agreement with Alfa Romeo; its terms stipulated that the Milan-
based manufacturer, which was a state-owned company like Renault, would be able to assemble
Dauphine cars under licence at its Portello factory and sell them in its network. For Renault this
was the only way to penetrate the most protected market in the young European Community.
March 1962 saw the creation of SAM (Sviluppo Motorist Meridionale: [Company for] Automobile
Development in Southern Italy). This Franco-Italian structure was intended to distribute the Renault
product range in the peninsula and to encourage industrial growth in the Mezzogiorno. The Renault
4 would in fact be assembled at Pomigliano d’Arco near Naples in a barely modern pre-war plant.
Production of the Renault 4, sold with the 845 cc engine in "4" (four windows) and "4L" (six
windows) versions, began in December 1962. The Italian version could be recognised by its Alfa
Romeo Giulietta rear lights and its small indicators on the front wings.
This strategy initially paid off: thanks to assembly, sales of the Renault 4 doubled between 1962
and 1963. Unfortunately it was just a flash in the pan: the Italian government soon instated a tax
based on the fiscal rating and the length of a car. This was obviously a disadvantage for the
Renault 4 compared to its small Italian competitors. This weakened the partnership with Alfa
Romeo and production ceased in early 1965. Joint distribution became a theoretical fact and
Renault Italia had to patiently rebuild a proprietary network. Luckily sales bounced back quickly. At
the end of the 1970s, whilst distribution of the Renault 4 slowed in some countries, in Italy it
continued to increase, peaking in 1980 with 40,238 units sold! As proof of this continuing success,
in the spring of 1985, Renault Italia ordered from Car Système Style (Redon) 600 "JP4" cars, an
original leisure vehicle build on the shortened platform of the Renault 4. The cars were to be
marketed by the Italian subsidiary under the name "Frog". One of them was even used by Iliona
Staller, the famous "Cicciolina", during her parliamentary campaign in 1987.
Spain
After the war, the Spanish car industry had to rise from its ashes. To promote the construction of
sites on Spanish soil, the government introduced prohibitive customs duties and imposed a rising
level of integration on fitters. Renault jumped into the fray just after SEAT. In December 1951 it
created F.A.S.A. (Fabricación de Automóviles Sociedad Anónima), a private company in which
Renault held only a 15% share. It chose Valladolid, to the northwest of Madrid, to build a small,
modern plant where it began producing the 4 CV in October 1953. After licensing the Dauphine,
the Renault 4 rights were granted to FASA, which turned out the first models at Valladolid at the
end of 1963. Nicknamed "Cuatro Latas" (four gears), the Renault 4 already accounted for one-third

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of production in 1964. The country's low equipment rate (one car for 48 inhabitants) made it a very
attractive commercial draw. By 1970 Renault would have no less than 25% of the market.
FASA and Renault's subsidiary in Spain, Renault España S.A. (R.E.S.A.) merged at the beginning
of 1965 and Renault's share in its equity gradually rose to over 50%. The local facilities quickly
became the target of massive expansions. On 1st July 1965, FASA became a subsidiary of the
Renault Authority and took on the name FASA-Renault. The Spanish Renault 4, which accounted
for 50% of Valladolid's production at the end of the 1960s, was equipped with the 845 cc engine
from the Dauphine, which was already made on the premises. When it was launched in 1964, its
utilitarian version met with the same success. Beginning in 1970, the subsidiary began building a
high-roof version that was incorporated as-is (with its special fenders, rims and engine) to the
French product range in the 1973-1975 model years. Like Haren, FASA was on its way to
becoming a decentralised operating site subsequent to a legislative change that occurred in 1972:
industrial partners could now enjoy a 50% integration rate provided that two-thirds of their
production was exported. This is how the Spanish Renault 4 found its way to Portugal, Columbia,
Venezuela and Mexico… It held out nearly until the end of the model's career on the lines at
Valladolid, with volumes that were anything but inconsequential: 403,213 saloons between 1963
and 1989 and 396,704 vans through August 1991.
Particular features of Spanish Renault 4s:

Limousine:
- 1964: Introduction of the 4L model; 12-volt electrical circuit; rounded bumpers with chrome-plated
guards. Through 1975 the Spanish retained a decorative rim around the rear license plate similar
to the first models in France.
- 1965 models: New version of the 4L Super with separate seats and nicer upholstery.
- 1967 models: Bumpers and indicators similar to those of the Renault 8.
- Beginning with the 1968 model, the Renault 4 Super was fitted with the 852 cc "Sierra" engine
with five crankshaft bearings (a variation on the Renault 8 engine) and a four-speed transmission.
Front seats like the Renault 8. New instrument panel and new radiator grille (like in France), but
addition of "devil horns" and armrests on the doors. The 4L model kept the 845 cc model for
another year. Through 1977, the "basic" 4 models featured the old bonnet with the "little mouth"
which made them look like the very first versions.
- 1974 model: Introduction of pierced rims.
- 1975 model: Matt black plastic radiator grille (like in France).
- 1976 model: The Super took the name "TL".
- 1978 model: R5 TL steering wheel. Bumper similar to the ones on the French model.
- 1980 model: Only the TL was still available.
- 1981 model: Assembly of the 1,108 cc 38 HP engine introduced in France in 1978 on the GTL;
front disc brakes.
- 1982 model: New instrument panel.
- The last models could be recognised by their rubber-like side moulding strips and, after 1987, by
their rims like those on the R5 GTL, which were also fitted on the van.
Vans:
- Engines and construction details like those of the limousines, sometimes adopted later (852 cc
engine in 1969, small-mouth radiator grille up to and including the 1976 model).
- Available in three versions: "F" (panel van) and "FS" (high-roof van) from 1970 and "FSA" (high
roof and glazed, with wheel hubcaps) from 1972. Note that the F6 extended van was built in Spain
beginning in 1981 in its panel and glazed versions, leading to the disappearance of the high-roof
F4.

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Portugal
In late 1963, Renault also opened an assembly plant in Portugal. Named "Industrias Lustitanias
Renault" (I.L.R.), it was located in Guarda, 250 kilometres northeast of Lisbon. Although from 1st
January 1964, the authorities banned the import of complete cars, CKD parts circulated freely, to
the benefit of local labour. FASA provided 75% of the funding for the ILR factory, whose surface
area tripled over 10 years. The Renault 4 and the van launched the facility and, until 1973, made
up a good half of production, which at the time meant 6,000 vehicles a year. The "Catrella" then
had to take a backseat to the Renault 5, but its production continued through the end of the 1980s.
In the meantime, Renault Portuguesa S.A. (the structure that replaced ILR in 1980) became a
significant company, helping to create a robust "Iberian division". Other plants came to
complement the Guarda factory and part of the production was re-imported into France
("Lusifrance" vehicles).
Particular features of "Guarda" Renault 4s:

Initially, the Renault 4 vehicles produced by ILR were fairly similar to the French models although
many of the parts were supplied by local companies. From 1971 to 1976, the Portuguese 4
versions followed the lead of the Spanish ones with which they shared the "C" type 852 cc engine.
In 1973, they were given the name "Renault 4 LC". In 1976 a new R1123 version appeared which
copied the French 5 HP Renault 4 with the 845 cc "B" (Billancourt) engine.
Ireland
In the 1960s, selling cars in Ireland was a gamble. The market was dominated by the British (which
had a 60% share) and all sorts of duties which prevented vehicles from penetrating it. Therefore
the majority of cars sold were assembled in-country. Since 1958, Renault cars had been made in
Naas, close to Dublin, by Motors Manufacturers and Distributors Ltd., which also handled
distribution. In 1963, imports were entrusted to the Smiths group, which would also begin assembly
two years later at a small plant in Wexford. Renault had begun at an extremely modest level but
had won 9.5% of the market by 1977. Starting in 1962, the Renault 4 (touring and utilitarian) was
the kingpin of this success: it accounted for half to two-thirds of all Renault cars manufactured in
Ireland. From 1966 to 1980, between 2,000 and 5,000 units were produced each year. Local
assembly began a steady decline in 1973 when Ireland joined the Common Market: the
preferential scheme applied to CKD was slated for elimination in the medium term. Renault began
to scale back and in 1977 Wexford became the only plant that assembled the Renault 4. Their
production, which had become unprofitable, came to an end in 1984.
Yugoslavia
After legislation was relaxed in 1964, Renault was able to import and sell between 2,000 and 5,000
cars a year in Yugoslavia to customers holding foreign currency. In light of this success, Renault
considered for a time assembling the Renault 4 and 16 TS at the Ikarus plant, which produced
motor coaches, but it was in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, that the range would be assembled
starting in November 1969, at the "Titovi Javodi Litostroj". In September 1972, Renault signed a
new agreement with I.M.V. (Industrija Motornih Vozil), which owned a modern assembly plant in
Novo Mesto where Adria caravans were produced for export to Europe. Production was initially
limited to the Renault 4 and 12, but grew quickly. Renault thus became the number two
manufacturer in Yugoslavia after Zastava which had long been assembling Fiat models. Between
1973 and 1992, the plant produced 575,960 Renault 4 cars and focused its production solely on
that model from 1976. After the Billancourt plant closed in 1987, IMV supplied between 9,000 and
20,000 cars per year to the European market. Sold to the Renault Group in 1988, the factory was
christened Revoz D.D. Very popular in the former Yugoslavia, the Renault 4 was affectionately
nicknamed "Katrca" (Catherine).

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Greece
The particular context of the Regime of the Colonels meant that the Renault 4 would not be
assembled in Greece as intended by the project hatched in 1971. In order to get round a restrictive
tax system, from 1980 to 1985 MAVA assembled some 3,500 units of a successful reinterpretation
of the Rodeo known as the Farma, a multipurpose polyester vehicle available in canvas-roof and
van versions. Approved by the Renault design department, the vehicle was distributed and
maintained by the network.
Africa
Morocco
In the early 1960s, Renault led the Moroccan market. In August 1966, SOMAR (Société Marocaine
des Automobiles Renault) received authorisation to oversee the assembly, alongside other makes
of vehicles, of Renault and Saviem cars by Société Marocaine de Constructions Automobiles
(SO.MA.C.A.). A semi-public company founded in 1959 by Simca and Fiat, SOMACA managed a
plant at Aïn Sebaa in the suburbs of Casablanca. In 1971, the company installed its own assembly
line in the country; the production of this Renault Morocco plant reached its peak in 1975 with
13,000 cars. At that time, some 33,000 Renault 4 saloons and 11,000 vans had already been
assembled in Morocco. The star of the late 1970s was the Renault 12, but the elder statesman
proved resistant, as it continued to come off the assembly lines until 1994, a few months after it
was abandoned by the other country that was still producing it, Slovenia!
Algeria
In the 1950s, Renault held 30% of the local market. In June 1959, it decided to assemble vehicles
there. The CARAL (Construction des Automobiles Renault en Algérie) was created to this end and
in November 1959, Pierre Dreyfus laid the first stone of the "Maison Carrée" plant in the town of
Harrach, near Algiers Dauphine production began there in January 1961. After independence, a
quota was applied to the import of complete vehicles. The company was obliged to focus entirely
on assembly, which it did for the Renault 4 and Renault 8 (in equal numbers), the Renault 4 van
version and other utility vehicles. The plant underwent a major expansion in 1969-1970. Renault
then covered 80% of the passenger car market in the country. In 1969, for every 11,290 cars
produced, 4,230 were Renault 4s and 2,435 Renault 4 vans. But the mood soured and Algerian
authorities demanded the payment of arrears on customs duties from which Renault had been
exempted by common accord. Renault suspended parts imports in the spring of 1971 and
production grinded to a sudden halt.
Tunisia
Since 1961, a small plant had been assembling Renault trucks in Sousse; the operating company,
S.T.I.A. (Société Tunisienne d’Industrie Automobile), was held by the Tunisian government (60%
share) and Renault (40% share). The site began producing light vehicles in January 1964. The
limousine and van versions of the Renault 4 were chosen for the operation. The first unit rolled off
the production line on 28 July 1965. The first passenger car built in Tunisia, the small Renault was
named the "R 4 Monastir" by President Habib Bourguiba, after his hometown. Depending on the
year and the allotted quota, production varied from 150 to 800, the vast majority of which was
always vans (sometimes as much as 90%). Volume even climbed to 1,625 cars in 1980; however,
one year later the government decided to end the STIA's monopoly and issue a call for tenders
including several companies. This gave birth in 1983 to the Mateur Renault complex. The Renault
4 was not produced there, but it had largely contributed to getting Tunisia rolling.

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Côte d’Ivoire
In 1962 the Renault-Africa Regional Division created a subsidiary dedicated to assembly, the
Société Africaine de Fabrication des Automobiles Renault (S.A.F.A.R.). The plant was near the
port of Abidjan and assembled light trucks then, toward the end of the year, the Renault 4.
Production quadrupled in eight years to reach 4,000 units, including trucks, in 1970. The majority of
production (50%) was always devoted to the Renault 4. But the customs facilities still granted to
French products were gradually phased out starting in 1972. Renault ended assembly in Abidjan in
the mid-1980s.
Ghana
Intermittent assembly activity involving small Saviem busses began in 1966 at the C.F.A.O. plant in
Accra. In 1969, the Ghanaian plant began producing Renault 4 saloons and vans. Around this
time, Renault, Peugeot and B.L.M.C. received approval to build a shared plant. The project never
got off the ground, but Renault 4 production continued until 1978, manufacturing around 100 per
year.
Zaire (now Democratic Republic of the Congo)

In 1969, Renault clinched an assembly agreement with General Motors, which for a time
assembled Renault 4s in its Kinshasa plant.
Angola
In 1970, the representatives of Chrysler France, Citroën, Renault and Ford U.K. in Angola together
created S.A.C.M.A. (Sociedade Angolana de Construcoes e Montagem de Automoveis) to
assemble utilitarian vehicles in Luanda. The breakdown by brand is not known because it appears
that assembly was carried out on an as-and-when basis according to the orders received. Around
450 Renault 4 vans were produced between 1971 and 1975, then almost as many again between
1977 and 1980, with a number of saloons on top. Production was transferred to more modern
facilities in 1981 (FAGOL facilities).
Madagascar
In 1960, the newly independent Madagascar attempted to develop an automotive industry. Two
assembly lines emerged there in 1962. The small plant in Antananarivo which assembled Renault
cars, SOMACOA (Société Malgache de COnstruction Automobile), in which Renault held a
minority interest, began producing the Renault 4 on 5 September 1962 (the van would be added
five years later). Trucks and other models in the "touring" range came after that, as well as
Peugeot vehicles. Between 500 and 1,000 Renaults (one-third of the island’s registrations in the
mid-1960s) were assembled on the island each year, most of them Renault 4s (between 310 and
530 saloons and 50 to 150 vans, varying from year to year). However, in 1981 the economic
situation led the government to suspend all import licences. Renault was forced to close down the
plant, in agreement with its partner.
South Africa
The subsidiary "Renault Africa Property Limited" was created in Johannesburg in October 1958,
but the assembly of Renaults under licence had begun two years prior in East London in
cooperation with the British firm C.D.A. (Car Distributors and Assemblers). CDA also produced
vehicles for other brands, but in 1964, out of 9,366 vehicles assembled, 3,069 were Renaults.
Production of the Renault 4 saloon and van had begun one year earlier. In 1967, operations were
transferred to Rosslyn, close to Pretoria in the Transvaal, to a plant belonging to Rosslyn Motor
Assemblies, a recently created company controlled by Nissan. As manufacturing delays mounted,
Renault teamed up with Peugeot to form National Assembly Ltd. and began production in July
1970 at Natalspruit, near Johannesburg. Two years later, a lack of space caused Renault's

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operations to once again be relocated to Rosslyn after exponential growth. In light of these
challenges and because of stricter legislation, Renault sold its business to the Lawson Group to
maintain a presence at a lower cost. At that point the Renault 4 saloon and van no longer
accounted for more than 1% of an already modest volume (2,589 vehicles in 1972), but in the best
years, about one out of every 10 South American Renaults was a Renault 4. Production between
1963 and 1972 is estimated at 3,900 units.
Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe)

In the 1970s Renault attempted assembly at the Willowvale Motor Industry site in Salisbury. This
former Ford plant which also assembled Alfa Romeos made it possible to support South African
production at a time when it had become less profitable, and to even replace it: it produced 2,973
Renaults in 1974 (of which 1,412 Renault 4s), compared to 230 in South Africa. In this market, the
Renault 4—nicknamed the "Noddy car"—was adopted by the national guards who patrol the nature
reserves. However, beginning in 1975, the civil war intensified and in August 1978, the United
Nations published a report denouncing the 593 companies which were violating the boycott rules
issued by the Security Council. Renault shuttered its operations in 1979. After the country became
independent, choosing the name of Zimbabwe, the Renault 5 reappeared for a time on the lines,
but not the Renault 4, whose local production totalled about 6,200 limousine versions.
South and Central America
Argentina
Nine months after setting up in Brazil (where the Renault 4 was not produced) and granting the
Dauphine licence to Willys Overland do Brasil (W.O.B.), Renault repeated the manoeuvre in
Argentina by signing on 27 November 1959, a second contract with Willys, this time in conjunction
with its subsidiary Industrias Kaiser Argentina, or I.K.A. Since 1955, this semi-public company had
produced 20,000 Jeep and Kaiser units in its Santa Isabel plant, located 800 km to the northwest
of Buenos Aires in the province of Cordoba. Renault granted it the Dauphine licence. One month
later, a similar agreement was finalised in Mexico. The Renault 4, which the factory called "EA"
(Econόmico Argentina), joined the production of touring versions (December 1963) then of the
"Furgón" (February 1964). It incorporated many Dauphine features, including the gearbox and the
"Ventoux" engine, which were made on the premises. The launch was as spectacular as the first
media test drives had been in Camargue two years earlier: the cars were engaged in a rodeo
alongside "criollas" horses steered by gauchos, and the journalists were able to drive the cars on
waterlogged terrain, proving their suitability to local conditions. A well-known figure gave the
operation his blessing: Juan Manuel Fangio, the famous race car driver, who also became a major
Renault car dealer in Buenos Aires. In 1974, the abilities of the Renault 4 earned it the nickname
"El Correcaminos" ("Roadrunner"). Its production volumes quickly surpassed the Dauphine.
In 1967, the Kaiser Group put Willys Overland do Brasil up for sale; Renault did not have the
necessary funds and had to give way to Ford. But Renault took advantage of the opportunity to
consolidate its position in Argentina and buy the majority of Kaiser-Frazer's IKA shares. Assuming
a reasonable assembly volume, Renault controlled 55% of a company whose size was enviable:
10,000 employees; 200 million dollars in turnover; 50,000 cars produced, including 17,000
Renaults (of which 11,000 R4s) which accounted for 15% of sales in the country. In 1975, Renault
acquired all of the shares that still belonged to IKA. The new entity, "Renault Argentina S.A."
(R.A.S.A.), held an enviable number two position in the market for a long time, investing regularly
to modernise its facilities. As elsewhere, the Renault 4's role as a car of conquest was eventually
eclipsed by the Renault 12 which launched in April 1971 and for three years led the market, selling
nearly 450,000 units. But the Renault 4 had nothing to be ashamed of, with 157,315 units
produced (148,170 saloons and 9,145 utilitarian—of which 173 pick-ups) and a long career that did

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not conclude until August 1986 for the saloon and December 1987 for the van. This total did not
even include the CKD units that IKA began supplying to Chile and Uruguay in 1972, exporting
between 2,500 and 4,000 each year.
Snapshot of the Argentine Renault 4:

- Base model: 4L version/Renault 4L (Sep. 1963-April 1970); retained the small radiator grille of the
early French models (1962-1967) up to and including the 1969 model year; Ventoux 845 cc
engine, 33.5 SAE HP. Bumpers with impact bars in the front and rear (including on the vans). Four
speed gearbox beginning with 1965 model year. Handbrake mounted on the floor to control the
rear wheels.
- Improved version: Renault 4G (December 1967-April 1970), with enlarged headlamps and new
instrument panel; series of 100 Renault 4 "Parisienne" units between May and October 1968, with
wicker pattern and special colours.
- April 1970: introduction of a "4S" version with a 1,020 cc engine with five crankshaft bearings
rated at 40 SAE HP (later 48 HP), new fully synchronised four-speed gearbox; enhanced
suspension and brakes. The 4L got the 1,020 cc engine at the same time; its career continued
through January 1972. After this date, only the 4S was available. Beginning in 1979, the bumpers
were flat and painted grey with horizontal stops to coordinate with the new radiator grille in matt
grey plastic.
- In September 1984, the 4S was replaced by the 4 GTL with its 1,108 cc engine like the French
GTL, but with 41 HP.
- 4 Van: "Furgόn" version (1963-1970) with 4L features, saloon tail lights mounted on plates. 4F
version (1970-1985) with 1,020 cc engine. "4F4" and "Pick-up" versions (1985-1987) with 1,108 cc
engine.
Colombia
The Renault 4 arrived in 1965, at the initiative of the importer Auto Andes, which procured cars
made by Spain’s FASA, as well as bare chassis on which it built a some rather elegant three-door
estate models. In 1967 Renault responded to a government call for tenders and won the contract
to build a car assembly plant with an annual production of 15,000 units at Envigado in the suburbs
to the south of Medellin. The semi-public company thus created, the SOFASA (Sociedad de
Fabricación de Automotores S.A.) also established a distribution network; this is how, on 15 July
1970, the Renault 4 became the first passenger vehicle assembled in Colombia. Over the years it
would be joined by other models, but it was this "Amigo fiel" (according to a 1975 ad campaign)
that would bring success. Customers were at first hesitant about this tiny car, but SOFASA won
over sceptics in 1970-71 by organising the "Colombia Rally", during which Renault 4 caravans
raced across the most challenging trails. Production peaked at 29,007 units in 1979, accounting for
70% of the entire market, all brands included! In 1992, because Renault—and rightly so—no
longer shipped Renault 4 parts, SOFASA had to stop production of the car that Colombians came
to consider as their national car after having manufactured some 97,050 of them. The Colombian
facilities play an important role today for Renault in South America.
Some unique features of the Colombian Renault 4:

- The first Renault 4 turned out was nicknamed "Azul Pastrana" because of its blue colour and in
honour of the new president Misael Pastrana, who implemented a flexible credit system to make it
easier to buy a Renault 4.
- In 1975 a Renault "Plus 25" was introduced; it was so named because its 1,022 cc engine (a
cubic capacity unheard of in Europe) was 25% more powerful than the previous 845 version; it
became the "4 GTL" with the same engine in September 1982. A better equipped "GTL Master"
version debuted in 1985. Same outer appearance as the Argentine 4s.
- 1989: Special "Jogging" edition with a sporty look and red accessories.

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- The top-of-the-range model was the "Lider", for which production began in June 1990; it boasted
a 1,289 cc engine (like the Renault 12) that was also used on the local Renault 6.
- A version of the French "Plein Air" (discontinued in 1970) existed in small quantities between
1989 and 1991: it was the 4 "Brisa", an evocative name.
Mexico
After the war, the Mexican government set about creating a national industrial sector.
Consequently, in 1951 the state-owned company Diesel Nacional (DINA) was created to build rail
equipment, trucks and busses. On 15 January 1960, as the government forbade imports of
complete vehicles, Renault went through difficult negotiations to sign a licencing contract with
DINA. The assembly line was located 100 km from Mexico City at Ciudad Sahagun in the high
plains of the Northeast (2,450 m). The city was haphazardly cobbled together at great cost to
industrialise a neglected region. In June 1962, the Dauphine was joined by the Renault 4 limousine
and van in their 845 cc versions, then the Renault 8 and even Alpine mini-saloons. All these cars
were considered to have been "nationalised" by the Mexican government! The factory also handled
advertising and distribution. One of the advantages of this captive market was that, at the
beginning of 1965, the Federal District purchased 300 Renault 4s and distributed among the 30
states to provide medical and social assistance and 100 others for the Mexican telephone
company. In late 1966, the subsidiary Renault Mexicana took the reins and boosted sales, which
rose to a 9% market share. The Renault 4 accounted for between a quarter and a tenth of total
production, varying from year to year. An estimated 20,000 Renault 4 saloons and 7,500 vans
were produced between 1962 and 1977.
Particular features of Mexican Renault 4s:

"Star" hubcaps from the first French models up through the 1970s; "Plein Air" version dubbed the
"4 Costero"; the last models had front fenders equipped with a small bull bar and off-set stops.
Peru
In January 1966, Renault and American Motors created I.A.P.S.A. (Industria Automotriz Peruana
S.A.) in which they each had an equal share; in the suburbs of Lima, IAPSA would assemble
Renault and Rambler models, as well as Peugeots, thanks to a contract signed with the importer of
the two brands. The shipments which supplied local assembly were exempt from customs duties
and many auto manufacturers intended to share this small market in the very short term. Although
the IAPSA plant had an annual capacity of 3,700 vehicles, between 1966 and 1970 only 750
Ramblers, 700 Renaults (Renault 4s and 10s, in roughly equal numbers) and 500 Peugeots were
manufactured. The endeavour came to an end in October 1970.
Chile
Beginning in 1964, Renault assembled the Renault 4 and the Rambler Classic 6 at Arica in the
Indauto plant co-owned with American Motors; after an interruption in 1966 and 1967, Renault 4
production recommended at Los Andes, north of Santiago, in facilities belonging to A.F.C.
(Automotores Franco Chilena), which were shared with Peugeot. Production was limited to
approximately 400 Renault 4s in 1968 and 1,200 in 1969. In 1975 the government authorised
some manufacturers to expand, but Renault was reluctant to reinvest money in a country still under
a dictatorship. Instead it settled for small-scale production of the Renault 4 (about one thousand
per year) in its "4S" Argentine version using CKD components from Cordoba. The factory at Los
Andes (Cormecanica) has since been modernised and now produces gearboxes for the Renault
Group.

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Venezuela
As the Venezuelan government was regularly reducing import contingents, the subsidiary
"Automovil de Francia" decided to build an assembly plant at Mariara, 100 kilometres north of
Caracas, in yet another partnership with American Motors. The production of Renault 8s and
Ramblers began in May 1963. Venezuelans had to wait until 1972 for the Renault 4 to arrive on
their production lines, but for three years it was their star model. However, the automotive
programme of the Andean Group, an economic community to which Venezuela belonged,
assigned its member states specific sectors and Venezuela was relegated to exclusively producing
models with 1.5 to 2 litres. Moreover, the government froze the prices of certain models in the
bottom of the range; with its margins plummeting, the Renault 4 was dropped from the
manufacturing scheme in 1976, after some 6,500 units.
Uruguay
It was in 1962-1963 that Renault sent its first CKD vehicles, Renault 4 vans, to Industria Automotriz
Peruana S.A. in Montevideo; 20 vehicles in all were produced that year. Another 250 followed, but
on 16 June 1966, the country found itself in the throes of a currency crisis and suspended all
imports; assembly did not return to a regular pace until 1970. In 1971, production was relocated to
Santa Rosa Automotores which had theretofore assembled Simca models. In 1972, Renault 4
pick-ups sent in CKD form by the plant in Argentina were added to production, preceded by a few
Renault 4 "Touring" cars (including a "fastback" version known as the "Renault 4 Mini"). An
estimated 4,500 small vans were produced over the course of 20 years.
Costa Rica
Some Renault 4s were assembled in Costa Rica by Auto Ensembladora S.A. in San José,
alongside the Renault 8 and 10. Production of all models combined exceeded no more than 50 or
so units a year between 1965 and the end of the decade.
Indian Ocean and Asia
Ceylon (now Sri Lanka)

Despite the invitations of the government, Renault preferred instead to continue delivering
complete cars based on opportunities as and when they arose (for example, in 1969, a fleet of 44
Renault 4s was delivered for use by taxi companies). However, starting in November 1973,
Renault sent several nationalised companies (such as the Marajah Organization Ltd. plant) CKD
collections of the R4 Torpedo, which were undoubtedly left-over bodies from the Renault 4 Plein
Air. These cars would be assembled until 1978-1979 on a small scale (one hundred per year). The
statistics also show 94 vans produced in 1974 and 1975: unless this is a local extrapolation based
on the famous "torpedoes"?
Philippines
About 15 assembly plants were operating in the Philippines at the beginning of the 1960s. Since
1958, the Liberty Motors plant had been making Renaults in Manila, including the Renault 4
starting in 1963. In 1968, Renault Philippines Inc. built its own facility at Manila-Makati. The
Renault would be assembled there through 1970 (saloon) and 1974 (vans) with an approximate
total production of 150 saloons and 650 vans.

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Oceania
Australia
CKD assembly, without local incorporation, began in 1949 in Belmore in the suburbs of Sydney, in
the factories of Ira L. & A. C. Berck Pty Ltd. Ten years later the Renault Australia subsidiary was
formed; some production was subsequently moved to West Heidelberg, a suburb of Melbourne in
the state of Victoria. The Renault 4 was launched on the market in July 1962 and assembled
locally in small quantities until 1966 (the van version was also on the production line). Overall
production remained modest (about 1,500 cars per year), but in 1966 Renault Australia purchased
the West Heidelberg plant; this investment made it possible to comply with a law requiring an
incorporation rate of 45%. The pace was quickly tripled, but production focused on the Renault 10.

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Chapter 4
The Renault 4 takes over track
From the formidable East African Safari, where it came fifth in its category in 1962 driven by
Bernard Consten and Claude Le Guézec, to the Monte Carlo Rally and the trails of South America,
the Renault 4 allowed multiple generations to take up the challenge of motorsports and see the
world, thanks to its road handling qualities and sturdy build.
The "Coupe de France Renault Cross Elf": school of dirt track racing
Having already led the way with the Coupe Gordini, Renault expanded its Feeder Formulas in
1974 by launching the "Coupe de France Renault Cross Elf". In partnership with the specialist
magazine 'Champion', Renault allowed novice racing drivers to sample the delights of dirt track
racing. Intended to be as economical as possible, the race was only driven with Renault 4s.
Preparation was kept to a bare minimum, with a strictly genuine part engine except for the addition
of a Devil exhaust. Most of the work was carried out on the body and the chassis. The bodywork
had to remain compliant with the original specifications; only the side windows, lights and hubcaps
could be removed. Finally, the windscreen - if kept - had to be a Triplex. The "Coupe de France
Renault Cross" was a huge hit with racing drivers thanks to its low registration fees (barely 200
francs), more than 10,000 francs in prize money for each race and a Renault 5 Coupe promised to
the season winner. On average, around sixty racing drivers battled it out before sometimes more
than 5,000 spectators amassed along the tracks of the 12 stages that made up a season.
The call of the tracks: seeing the world

In the late 1960s, freedom-loving young people began to go on long journeys, later referred to as
‘treks’. They set off at the wheels of their everyday cars – often 4Ls – to brave the world’s roads.
Asia – a very fashionable destination at the time – attracted most of these adventurers, with
smaller numbers setting off for the south towards sub-Saharan Africa. The Sahara, with its
thousands of miles of emptiness and sand, formed a barrier that for many was insurmountable. It
was here that the Marreau brothers chose to quench their thirst for adventure. With the goal of
beating the record for driving from the Cape to Algiers (set the previous year in a Renault 12
Gordini), in 1969 they went on a scouting trip in a Renault 4.
Paris-Dakar: David versus Goliath

Eight years later and again in a Renault 4, the brothers waited at the starting line of a new type of
rally, a race over several thousand miles from Paris to Dakar. They performed superbly, finishing
fifth overall and second in the car category behind the potent Range Rover V8, twice as powerful
as their 4L. The race in 1980 saw the Marreau brothers and their Renault 4, boosted by a Renault
5 Alpine engine, take third place on the podium, only one hour and ten minutes behind the winners.
The Paris-Dakar race became the stuff of legend, the Marreau brothers heroes and the astute
Renault 4 the symbol of a rally where amateurs could still claim victory over official teams.
Ten thousand miles in a Renault 4!

Michèle Ray, Eliane Lucotte, Betty Gérard and Martine Libersart: four young women tackling a
continent. Ten thousand miles separate Ushuaia, Tierra Del Fuego, and Anchorage, Alaska, along
the entire American continent. Over four and a half months, the two teams braved regions as tricky
and varied as the Andes, the Amazonian rainforest and the Utah salt desert before reaching the icy
rock slopes of Tierra Del Fuego, demonstrating the sturdiness and agility of the Renault 4.

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"Routes du Monde"
In 1966, Renault launched the "Routes du Monde" programme, in association with the French
Society of explorers and travellers. This programme consisted of organising theme-based
expeditions for six to eight teams of young people between the ages of 18 and 25 driving Renault
4s. Candidates were required to submit to a jury a travel project on a particular theme, taking them
anywhere in the world. Every year, between 150 and 200 applications were received. Renault lent
out its cars for a period of one month to a year or even more, offering courses in mechanics,
cinema and photography on top. The programme lasted until 1984.
The Renault 4 involved in the present 4L Trophy

In a remarkable phenomenon, young people in the early 21st century have also elevated the
Renault 4 to the status of a symbolic icon of freedom. The 4L Trophy has certainly played its part in
this. Launched in 1998, this race sees 1,200 teams of students compete in a 4,000-mile navigation
trial taking them from Paris to the south of Morocco. Most of the cars used have clocked up many
years and thousands of miles already. The magic of the Renault 4 can thus still be seen: an
adventurer, driven everywhere, in sand and over rocky ground. The Renault 4 is so reliable that it
never really breaks down - the teams of amateurs taking part in the race manage to get along with
the resources they have on board and rejoin the camp every night...

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Chapter 5
The Renault 4, 30 Years of Evolution

1961 On 3 August, the first Renault 4 came off the assembly lines at the Ile Seguin plant. On 4
October, at the last Paris Auto Show held at the Grand Palais, the new Renault was
introduced. At that time Renault 4 was offered in three versions:
• The R3 (type R 1121), a scaled-back version with a 603 cc (type 690) engine that
attained 22.5 SAE HP and entitled buyers to a fiscal rating of 3 HP. From the outside
the R3 can be distinguished by its painted tubular bumpers, the lack of hubcaps and its
four side windows. In the passenger compartment, minimalism ruled: there was a single
sun visor on the driver's side, equipped with a frail three-spoke steering wheel.
• The R4 (type R 1120) resembled the R3, notably with its third side window partially
covered by a metal sheet, but it was fitted with a 747 cc engine (type 680).
• Beyond the economical models, the range included an R4L, whose six side windows
gave it a claim on the title "limousine"; this version also had a 747 cc engine under its
hood.
The first van version of the Renault 4 was presented right after the 1961 Auto Show. Listed
as a type R 2102, its payload was 300 kg and it had the same trim as the R3 and R4, but
with wider tyres (145 x 330). The R4 van was offered with an optional hinged rear roof flap
dubbed "giraffe roof" ("Girafon").
In November 1961, the fuel tank filler hole was transferred to the right rear wing. The entire
range used a three-speed gearbox.
1962 March saw the debut of the R4 Super model (type R 1122), which was also considered to
be a "super comfort" model, according to sales documentation from the period. It kept the
747 cc engine, but its horsepower grew to 32 SAE HP. This new version reused the R4L's
six-window body, but innovated with its new fold-down rear tailgate with drop window. This
version was equipped with chrome-plated dual-tube bumpers.
The R3 was discontinued in September. The Super was now fitted with an 845 cc engine
(type 800-02), which made its fiscal rating 5 HP and earned it a new place in the Renault
nomenclature: R 1124. The R4L abandoned its tubular bumpers in favour of chrome-plated
finned fenders.
S.I.N.P.A.R. (Société Industrielle de Production et d’Adaptation Rhodanienne), Renault's

long-standing subcontractor specialised in construction site vehicles, began using the
Renault 4 as an "all terrain", four-wheel drive vehicle.
1963 In September, the rear tailgate was enhanced with hinges that made it possible to hold the
door open. These replaced the antique "rod" that had been used to hold the tailgate in the
open position. Another new development was the addition to the range of a fully
synchronised gearbox. As for the van, it received a painted finned front bumper, whereas
the rear bumper remained tubular.
The R4 Super was dropped from the catalogue in favour of the R4L Super (type R 1123).

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The "Parisienne" entered the scene in December. This elegant version of the R4L was the
result of an operation launched in conjunction with Elle magazine. Recognisable by its
decorative side panels and its special interior, it was introduced in two versions, one with a
wicker pattern and one with a plaid pattern.
1964 In February the new glazed version of the van was introduced, offering a payload of 300 kg.
In September, the R4L Super was replaced by the new version, Export, which boasted the
747 cc engine with 4 HP (type R1120) or 5 HP (type R 1123).
Overall production surpassed the 500,000 mark.
1965 Starting in September, the R4 name would give way to "Renault 4". All of the brand's
models replaced the abbreviated "R" with the brand's name spelled out in its entirety. The
R4 became the Renault 4 Luxe and the R4L became the Renault 4 Export. Another
260,000 units rolled out of Renault plants.
1966 1st February 1966, the Ile Seguin plant reached the one million milestone for Renault 4
production! The model was being marketed in four versions: Luxe, Export, Parisienne and
Van.
In March, the payload on the vans was increased to 350 kg, the type R 2105 replaced the
type R2102 and the utilitarian range was expanded with a new 5 HP model, the type R
2106.
In September, Renault Luxe became Renault 4 and, like the rest of the range, gained a new
instrument panel and steering wheel. The Export and Parisienne versions were also
improved with new seats featuring longitudinal stitching and door trims.
1967 The Renault 4 added a speed, stepping up to a four-speed gearbox.
In September, the Renault 4 got a facelift: the small radiator grille was swapped out for a
wider radiator grille that encased the headlamps. The diamond shifted to the right and the
bumpers changed shape yet again.
1968 The Parisienne took its final bow, but the Plein Air (type R 1123)—a cabriolet version of the
Renault 4—hit the market. Manufactured by Sinpar, the "Plein Air", a torpedo stripped of
doors and side windows, was ideal for the beach and recreational activities.
The vans were treated to the same aesthetic improvements as the saloons.
1969 Beginning in September, the contact switch was moved to the right of the steering wheel
and the gearbox grid was engraved on the gear knob, whose shape had been altered. The
headlights met European codes and the rear bench seat of the Renault 4 saloons could
now be folded down.
1970 From April on, all the Renault 4 models were furnished with safety belts in the front seats.
The electric equipment changed from 6 to 12 volts.
The Plein Air was eliminated from the catalogue.

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1971 The Rodeo entered the scene. Renault supplied Ateliers de Construction du Libradois
(A.C.L.) with 4L manual transmissions for the engines of a plastic body designed and built
by Teilhol.
Starting in September, the cubic capacity of the engines increased from 747 to 782 cc. As a
result, the types were updated: the R 1120 became R 1126 for saloons and the R 2105
became R 2109 for vans.
A new van, featuring an 845 cc engine (type R 2108) was launched; it also had a raised
plastic roof and a 400-kg payload.
With more than 3,500,000 units for all versions combined, the Renault 4 was still the most
produced model from Renault.
1972 Seat belt anchorage points were introduced in the back seats of Renault 4 saloons.
The name plate's style was redesigned by painter Victor Vasarely and his son Yvaral.
1973 With the exception of the 400-kg van, the entire range was fitted with the Renault 6
gearbox. Starting in September, all of the Renault 4s operated with low emission engines,
in compliance with the new normative requirements; they added 3 HP and now delivered 27
DIN HP. The van's success was confirmed with more than 100,000 models produced.
1974 From September on, the radiator grille evolved to a black plastic version with the diamond
symbol in its centre. The Renault 6 gearbox was now in use on the full Renault 4 range.
1975 In June the van was extended by 8 cm and its payload rose from 350 to 400 kg or from 400
to 440 kg respectively for the long version (type R 2370) and long estate version (type R
2430).
In September, the old dynamo was replaced with a modern alternator, leading to the
addition of a voltmeter to the instrument panel.
1976 Unveiled at the 1975 auto show, the Safari boasted an exterior appearance and interior
features specifically designed to appeal to young consumers.
In July new rectangular indicators were added to the front.
1977 A new meter unit with a redesigned tachometer was added, as well as the steering wheel
from the Renault 5. A split braking system was introduced with a pressure drop indicator on
the instrument panel. Beginning in July, the "4L" name would no longer be used, but rather
"Renault 4".
1978 As of January, the new Renault 4 GTL featured an 1,108 cc engine that had already been
seen on the Renault 8, which here delivered 34 DIN HP. In addition to the new cubic
capacity, this engine's crankshaft was constructed with five bearings (compared to three for
the other engines in the range), which ensured its longevity. Because the formula for
calculating fiscal ratings changed, the final reduction was now the pertinent measurement;
this meant that the new Renault 4 GTL was still a 4 HP despite the increased cubic
capacity. Performance improved while fuel consumption dropped by an average of one litre.

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On the outside, its radiator grille and bumpers were uniformly grey and two protective
crossovers were added to the ends of the front bumper.
Sliding glass was added to the rear windows, which were no longer fixed.
In July, the pick-up debuted. Designed on the base of the F6 van, this utilitarian van was
produced in Auvergne in the workshops of the Teilhol facility.
The Renault 4 Safari and extended glazed estate were discontinued.
1979 Starting in July, the 1980 model year would have standard "tubeless" tyres (except for F4
vans).
The Renault 4 inherited the wheels of the basic Renault 5 while the Renault 4 GTL got the
Renault 5 TS wheel.
1980 New organisation of switches on the Renault 4 instrument panel. In parallel, the Renault 4
lost its chrome-plated bumpers, which were replaced with painted parts while the TL
version's solid buckle wheels were supplanted by pierced wheels with visible mounts.
1981 In May, Renault revealed "the best way to roll". That was the advertising slogan of the new
Renault 4 Jogging, a limited production run of 5,000 cars. Its décor was resolutely young
with vibrant colours and an integrated sun roof covered in canvas cloth.
1982 Starting in July, the Renault 5 instrument panel was used in the Renault 4. At the same
time, the utilitarian F4 could be modified to run on liquid petroleum gas. The 782 cc engine
made room for the 845 cc unit, which generated as much power as the 1108 cc engine (or
34 DIN HP) but at 5,000 RPM.
1983 Across the range, disc brakes were added in front with a disc-calliper unit, driven by a new
master cylinder, making the braking system more effective. A laminated windscreen
replaced the old version in tempered glass.
1985 The Renault 4 tried to keep the range alive; the Sixties version, produced in a limited run of
2,200 units, re-energised sales. Designed on the base of the GTL model, this version,
offered in blue, yellow or red, could be distinguished by its two sun roofs in heat-resistant
glass and its black matt exterior trim.
In July, the F6 van version was discontinued.
1986 Launched in May, the Clan and Savane would be the last two evolutions of the Renault 4. A
sign of the times, the diamond brand's cars were given names and not simply alphanumeric
sequences. Thus the Renault 4 TL was renamed "TL Savane" and the GTL became the
"Clan". The TL and F4 used the 956 cc unit with five crankshaft bearings which also
delivered 34 DIN HP. The two models could be easily identified thanks to the words
"Savane" or "Clan" affixed to the front doors and rear tailgate. While the Savane used the
same wheels as the Renault 5 GTL, the Clan inherited the handsome two-colour "Style"
rims which had already been seen on the Renault 12 and Renault 16.
Production of Break F4 vans ended in June.
1988 The van was removed from the market in France.

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1989 The Clan and Savane were fitted with a right exterior rear view mirror and two rear fog
lights.
1991 A new limited series based on the TL Savane, the "Carte Jeune", was launched in July. It
was easy to guess the consumer target... Offered in four shades, "Grapefruit", "Glacier
White", "Bright Red" and "Sequoia", and featuring a special interior, the car was
embellished with body trim consisting of a double border and the "Carte Jeune" logo.
1992 The introduction of stricter antipollution standards heralded the end of the Renault 4. A final
limited edition of 1,000 units based on the Clan model would be produced: the Bye-Bye.
The very last version of the Renault 4, each model left the assembly plant with a numbered
plaque on the instrument panel counting down from 1000 to 1.

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APPENDICES

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Appendix 1
The Renault 4 at the cinema and on TV
The Renault 4, an everyday car for 50 years that became an automobile classic, has graced the
silver screen and television on numerous occasions. Starring roles include:
Cinema
Romancing the Stone

• USA, 1984
• Adventure
• Directed by Robert Zemeckis
• Starring Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner
• French title: A la Poursuite du Diamant Vert
Le Grand Bazar
• France, 1973
• Comedy
• Directed by Claude Zidi
• Starring Les Charlots and Michel Galabru
Les Gaous
• France, 2004
• Comedy
• Directed by Igor SK
• Starring Richard Bohringer

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Les Bronzés Font du Ski

• France, 1979
• Comedy
• Directed by Patrice Leconte
• Starring Michel Blanc and Christian Clavier
Les Visiteurs
• France, 1993
• Comedy
• Directed by Jean-Marie Poiré
• Starring Jean Reno and Christian Clavier
.
Mariages!
• France, 2003
• Comedy
• Directed by Valérie Guignabodet
• Starring Jean Dujardin and Mathilde Seigner
Pour le Plaisir
• Franc/Belgium, 2004
• Comedy
• Directed by Dominique Deruddere
• Starring Samuel Le Bihan and François Berléand

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Trafic
• France/Netherlands, 1971
• Comedy
• Directed by Jacques Tati
• Starring Jacques Tati and Maria Kimberly
Un Crime au Paradis
• France, 2001
• Comedy
• Directed by Jean Becker
• Starring Jacques Villeret and Josiane Balasko
Leap Year
• USA, 2010
• Romance
• Directed by Anand Tucker
• Starring Amy Adams and Matthew Goode
• French title: Donne-moi ta Main
Rien à Déclarer
• France, 2011 (scheduled for release in February)
• Comedy
• Directed by Dany Boon
• Starring Benoit Poelvoorde and Dany Boon.
• Stars a Renault 4

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Television
Les Saintes Cheries

• French television series, 39 episodes, 1965
• By Nicole de Buron
• Starring Micheline Presle and Daniel Gélin
Les Chevaliers du Ciel

• French television series, 39 episodes, 1967
• By Jean-Michel Charlier
• Starring Jacques Santi and Christian Marin
Une Vie Française

• French TV film, 2010
• By Jean-Pierre Sinapi
• Starring Jacques Gamblin and Mathilda May
• NB: Renault 4 loaned by Renault Histoire & Collection

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The Renault 4 and the arts
Arman (French, 1928-2005)

Painter, sculptor and visual artist famous for his "accumulations".
Used car components for some of his works, notably Renault 4 parts
for pieces such as:
Accumulation Renault n°101, 1967 / R4 body sides
Jean-Pierre Raynaud (French, 1939- )

Visual artist.
Used a Renault 4 as the basis for his "Red Green Yellow Blue" exhibit
in 1972 at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs de Paris.
Raymond Savignac (French, 1907-2002)

Famous poster artist.
When the Renault 4 was launched in 1961, he designed several

advertising posters, including the naïf-style R4 in 1963 and the
giraffe roof illustration in 1961.
Wolinski (French, 1934- )

Cartoonist
He illustrated the Renault 4 GTL in a humorous comic

strip, "Accroche-toi, Papa!" (Hold on Tight, Dad!) to
highlight the car's unique features.
4L scale models
To mark the 50th anniversary of the Renault 4,
Renault Histoire & Collection has commissioned a series of
10 4Ls by the young French artist Christophe Goujon.
Fibreglass (106 x 47 x 44cm).

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Appendix 2
Books about the Renault 4
Guide de la Renault 4 (2011)

• Author: Philippe Berthonnet
• Publisher: E.T.A.I
• Subject: overview of technical and mechanical aspects and changes over different
generations.
L’Aventure du Dakar (working title) (2011)

• Authors: Claude and Bernard Marreau
• Subject: the Marreau brothers' experiences on the Paris-Dakar Rally with the Renault 4.
Generations 4L (2010)
• Authors: Philippe Berthonnet and Bernard Canonne
• Subject: the Renault 4 seen through profiles of famous and not so famous owners.
Renault 4 - Un Losange à Toute Epreuve (2010)

• Author: Thibaut Amant
• Subject: a collection of photos depicting details of the Renault 4.
Vierkant Renault 4 (2004)

• Author: Tony Vos
• Publisher: Aprilis
• Subject: the history and photos of the model in Dutch
Album Renault 4 (1995)

• Author: Robert Séjourné
• Publisher: E.P.A
• Subject: photos and stories, starting with its birth in 1961 and covering its motorsport
history, the production lines, evolutions to the different versions, advertising and expeditions.
La Renault 4 de Mon Père (1995)

• Authors: Marie-Claire Lauvray and Dominique Pascal
• Subject: photos and anecdotes from 1960, the birth of a concept, to 1992, the end of an era
with the Bye-Bye version, including production, advertising and motorsport.
Cavale en 4L (1973)
• Author: Pierre-Alain THIL
• Publisher:: Publipôle (out of print)
• Subject: photos and stories of the Pau-Djakarta-Pau raid in a 1966 Renault 4.

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Appendix 3
Renault 4 advertising films

The media library of Renault's Communications and Histoire & Collection departments benefit from
an extensive database of French and international advertising films and posters. Some of these
documents are available from the Renault media library, while the others are kept by Renault's
special events fund. For further information, contact the Communications Department or
luc.byleved@renault.com.
French films:
1960:
• "Go on--you're in an R4"
• "Set the tone, ahead of your time in the R4"
• "Mystery"
Î Media library reference: 1960-018 - Renault 4 advertisements
1961:
• Brief overview of the interior and exterior of the Renault 4 (black and white)
• "Engines…!" (note: shows the set of a movie where the 4L is the star)
• "Plein Air"
• "4L Focus"
Î Media library reference: 1961-002 - Renault 4 advertisements (1961) – part 2
1973:
• "Renault 4 goes everywhere" (music by Michel Fugain)
Î Media library reference: 1960-018 - Renault 4 advertisements (1960)
1978:
• "Found in 103 countries" (filmed in Lapland)
Î Media library reference: 1978-022 - Renault 4 in Lapland advert
1983:
• "Around the world in a Renault 4"
Î Media library reference: "On réclame la pub"
Miscellaneous:
• "Renault 4" (in the 1960s, a family discovers the car on an advertising billboard)
Î Media library reference: Renault advertisements (1954 -1966)
Spanish and Argentine films:
1960s/1970s:
• "Ydilio en Renault 4" (two Renault 4s in love in a Beetle-type clip)
• "Renault 4 es un producto IKA Renault" (Renault 4 accompanied by a group of musicians"
• "El travieso Renault 4L" (a love story between a young woman and a Renault 4)
Î Media library reference: 1970 - 016 - Renault 4 advertisements

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• "La Pandilla del Renault 4L" (sequel to "Renault 4 es un producto IKA Renault")
Î Media library reference: Renault 4 advertisements (1960s and 1970s)
1980:
• Renault 4 Western advertisement
• "Renault 4 Su Bella es su mecanica" (set in an arena)
Î Multimedia library reference: 1980-032 - Renault 4 advertisements
1980s (Renault Van):

• "Un trio cargado de Ventajas" (episode with pianist)
• "Un trio cargado de Ventajas" (episode with sculptor)
• "Un trio cargado de Ventajas" (episode with diver)
• "Un trio cargado de Ventajas" (episode with Wile E. Coyote and Roadrunner)
• "F6 Cargadas de Ventajas"
Î Media library reference: 1980-032 - Renault 4 advertisements - Spain
German film:
1960s/1970s:
• Short ad (scripted photo style, black and white)
Italian films:
1960s/1970s:
• Advertisement (happy family in a Renault 4 having a picnic, black and white)
• Advertisement (five Renault 4 cars in different colours driving down the road)
African films:
1960s/1970s:
• "A car for the city, a car for the bush"
• "Take a Letter" (English-language film depicting everyday situations)

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Appendix 4
Renault 4 vehicles in the Renault collection

Renault Histoire & Collection owns an outstanding collection of Renault models including 26
Renault 4s which are available on request.
Renault 3 (1961)
It was at the Paris Motor Show in October 1961 that Renault launched its latest innovation, the
Renault 4, alongside a more slimmed down model, the Renault 3. The purpose of the Renault 3
was to offer an even less expensive version with a French fiscal rating of 3 hp.
Technical data:
Engine: four cylinders in-line, 603cc, 20hp at 4,700rpm
Transmission: three-speed manual gearbox + reverse
Brakes: drums all round
Number produced: 2,526 (between 1961 and 1962)
Renault 4 East African Safari (1962)

In April 1962, to promote the car, the Renault 4 took part in the tenth running of the East African
Safari. It came fifth in its class in the hands of Bernard Consten and Claude Le Guézec who
demonstrated the model's strength.
Technical data:
Engine: four cylinders in-line, 747cc
Renault 4 Super Rallye Monte-Carlo Rally (1963)

The Renault 4 Super stands out due to its choice of colours and travelling comfort, having real
seats compared with the bench seat of the basic Renault 4. It also inherited a fold-down tailgate
and a more powerful engine, which led to this model being chosen to contest the Rallye Monte-
Carlo in 1962 and 1963.
Technical data:
Transmission: four-speed manual gearbox + reverse
Renault 4 "Elle" (1965)

Four young women – Michèle Ray, Eliane Lucotte, Betty Gérard and Martine Libersart – took this
car on a 40,000km adventure from Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego to Anchorage in Alaska.
Technical data:
Projet 118 (1965)

In 1965, the project to design a comfortable saloon based on the Renault 4 was launched. In
addition to Renault's own design team, the Italian coach builder Ghia was asked to submit a
proposal. Ghia produced a rustic vehicle with a predominantly utilitarian character, baptised Project
118. It was finally the Renault team's own design, which was even further removed from the
Renault 4, that was launched in 1968 as the Renault 6.

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Technical data:
Renault 4 "Faune du Soleil de Minuit" (1966)

In 1966, in association with France's Explorers and Travellers Society, Renault's External
Relations department launched the "Routes du monde" operation. This initiative involved
organising theme-based expeditions in Renault 4s for between six and eight teams of youngsters
aged between 18 and 25. Applicants had to submit their intended trip – which could take them to
any part of the world – to a jury. The operation ended in 1984.
Technical data:
This car was used for an expedition to northern Scandinavia called "Faune du Soleil de Minuit".
Renault 4 Parisienne (1967)

In 1963, Renault launched an operation in association with Elle magazine entitled, "Elle prend le
volant" ("She's in the driving seat"). Lady drivers had 48 hours to test drive the car and judge its
qualities. The Renault 4 was dressed up for the occasion in "canework" and "tartan" outfits. This
version was baptised "Parisienne" and sold until 1968.
Technical data:
Renault 4 Export (1968)

In 1968, the Renault 4 underwent a facelift, with the introduction of more comfortable seats, a new
grille, new bumpers and, to make it even more enjoyable to drive, a new synchromesh four-speed
gearbox.
Technical data:
Transmission: four-speed gearbox + reverse
Renault 4 Plein Air (1969)

The Plein Air was a convertible open touring car made by Sinpar which was known for its 4x4
conversions. The front section was retained with the windscreen frame which was adapted so that
the convertible top could be fastened to it. The sides, doors and roof were removed. The tailgate
was sliced in half, leaving only the lower section in place. The remaining bodywork on the side of
the vehicle was reinforced while the rest of the vehicle remained a more or less standard Renault
4. The Plein Air was more of a beach car than a road car. It was launched in May 1968 but
discontinued in April 1970; very few cars were in fact produced.
Technical data:

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Renault 4 F4 "Renault Service" (1970)

Thirty years after the first red breakdown cars, Renault's orange service vehicles became part of
the landscape and were synonymous with local service.
Technical data:
Transmission: four -speed gearbox + reverse
Renault 4 Rallye Paris-Dakar (1980)

A Sinpar-prepared all-wheel drive Renault 4 took part in the second Paris-Dakar Rally with
brothers Claude and Bernard Marreau behind the wheel. The car notably featured a Renault 5
Alpine engine and suspension. The brothers finished third overall.
Technical data:
Engine: four cylinders in-line, 1,397cc (93hp DIN at 6,400rpm)
Brakes: front discs and rear drums
Vehicle made available by the Marreau brothers for the 4L's 50th anniversary celebrations
Renault 4 Cross (1981 championship)

Already a pioneer with the Coupe Gordini and Formula Renault, Renault stepped up its one-make
championship programme in 1974 with the launch of the "Coupe de France Renault Cross Elf" in
association with the motorsport magazine "Champion". Designed to be as inexpensive as possible,
the series was restricted Renault 4s running a standard engine fitted with a Devil exhaust. The
competition was popular among drivers thanks to its low entry fee (less than 200 Francs), a prize
fund of more than 10,000 Francs and the top prize of a Renault 5 Coupe.
Technical data:
This car is a replica of the car which won the 1981 championship in the hands of Michel Duvernay.
It was made by the Histoire & Collection department for the 4L's 50th anniversary celebrations.
Renault 4 "Seventies" (1984)

The 1970s livery of this unique model illustrates the years of flower power and advertising.
Technical data:
Engine: four cylinders in-line, 1,108cc, 34hp
Brakes: front discs, rear drums
This car is based on the R4 GTL and its livery was designed for the needs of an exhibition in
association with the advertising agency Publicis. It is in perfect condition and running order.
Renault 4 F6 (1984)
In June 1975, the range was extended with the addition of a "long van" version. Its carrying
capacity and higher payload ensured a successful career that lasted a decade.
Technical data:
Engine: four cylinders in-line, 1,108cc

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Renault 4 Clan (1985)

The beginning of 1985 marked a turning point in the production of the Renault 4. Ile Seguin
became a pilot plant and Renault 4 made way for the Express.
Technical data:
This vehicle is one of the last Renault 4's to come off the line of the Billancourt plant. It is in
exceptional condition.
Renault 4 GTL Sixties - 1985

Launched in a choice of three colours (red, yellow or blue), the limited edition Sixties versions was
a tribute to the 1960s. It stood out by its two opening glass sunroofs and three-colour fabric trim
combined with black synthetic leather.
Technical data:
Engine: four cylinders in-line, 1,108cc, 34hp
Renault 4 Darty Van (1986) / Renault 4 La Poste Van (1988)

Launched in 1961, the Renault 4 Van boasted a payload of 300kg and a carrying capacity of
almost 2m3. It featured reinforced torsion-bar rear suspension, and a hinged glazed rear door
which opened from right to left to facilitate loading from a pavement. But what made the vehicle so
original was its raisable and removable domed panel which folded back over the roof to permit tall
loads to be carried. This roof flap, exclusive to Renault, was known as the "girafon" (baby giraffe).
Technical data:
Engine: four cylinders, 1,108cc
Gearbox: four-speed gearbox + reverse
Renault 4 Savane (1991)

The Renault 4 range saw a change of names in 1986: TL models became "Savane" and GTL
models became "Clan". These new names would remain until Renault 4 production ceased.
Technical data:
Renault 4 Clan "Bye-Bye" (1992)

In 1992, Renault 4 bowed out with a last limited edition version, the Clan-based "Bye-Bye". A
numbered plate (from 1,000 to 1) was attached to the vehicle's dashboard before it left the factory.
Technical data:
This is the car numbered' 0001. It is in perfect condition

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Renault 4 "Gendarmerie" (1992)

The Renault 4 was used by many different public departments, the "4L Gendarmerie" being one
such example.
Technical data:
This vehicle is the last to be for the Gendarmerie and was presented to France's military-based
policy force. Almost 20 years later, it has been made available to Renault to celebrate the 4L's 50th
anniversary.
Renault 4 Miss Sixty - 2011

The Renault 4 Miss Sixty echoes the name of the high street fashion brand Miss Sixty and the blue
jeans dear to Pierre Dreyfus. It is also refers to the limited edition Twingo of the same name that
was unveiled at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. The Renault 4 Miss Sixty is a one-off car designed by
Renault's design team in association with Miss Sixty, and produced by Renault Histoire &
Collection as part of the model's half-century celebrations. It is based on a 1965 Renault 4L and
features a specific body colour and bespoke decals on the boot, rear left wing and two of its
wheels, as well as specific rear lights and an interior trimmed in grey denim with pink stitching and
embroidered patterns.
Renault 4 2011 historic Rallye Monte-Carlo (three cars)

These cars a are a tribute to the four works crews who contested the legendary Rallye Monte-
Carlo in a Renault 4 in 1962 and 1963. The Histoire & Collection department has prepared three
Renault 4s for the 2011 historic Rallye Monte-Carlo (January 27-February 2). Each one was
entirely stripped and rebuilt like any rally car. They have been equipped to tackle the challenges of
the 2,500km route in the hands of drivers Jean Ragnotti, Manu Guigou and Michel Duvernay.
Renault 4 "Bi-Face" (2011)

To illustrate the different sides to the Renault 4 and the many types of driver that the car attracted,
the Histoire & Collection department has built a unique model to stand at the centre of the
travelling exhibition that will celebrate the Renault 4's 50th anniversary. While the rear resembles
the chic Parisienne version marketed in the 1960s and aimed chiefly at lady city dwellers, the front
features a large flowers and a symbol of peace and love to recall the 1970s and the generation of
the day that was finding freedom.

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Appendix 5
Calendar of events (2011)

January 27-February 2 Three Renault 4s entered for Historic Rallye Monte-Carlo
February 2-6 Renault 4 display at the Retromobile classic car show, Paris (France)
February 16-26 4L Trophy raid
March 3-13 Renault 4 display at the Geneva Motor Show (Switzerland)
February 28-March 28 Renault 4 display at the Autoworld Museum (in association with the Belgian
4L Club)
April 12-23 Renault 4 display at the Amsterdam Motor Show (Netherlands) (tbc)
April 16-17 Renault 4 display at the World Series by Renault meeting at Motorland
Aragon (Spain)
April 29 Renault 4 display at the Annual Shareholders Meeting
April 30-May 1 Renault 4 display at the World Series by Renault meeting at Spa-
Francorchamps (Belgium)
May 11-22 Renault 4 display at the Cannes Film Festival (France)
May 28-29 Display of Renault 4 vans at the Locomotion en Fête meeting
June 18-19 Renault 4 display at the World Series by Renault meeting at the
Nürburgring (Germany)
From June Renault 4 display at the Pavillon de l’Ile Seguin, near Paris (France)
June 25 Renault 4 display at the Losange Passion International meeting
July 1-3 Renault 4 display at Goodwood Festival of Speed (England) (tbc)
July 2-3 Renault 4 display at the World Series by Renault round at the
Hungaroring (Hungary)
July 15-17 4L International Meeting in Thenay (France)
September 17-18 Renault 4 display at the Renault factory in Flins, France
September 17-18 Renault 4 display at the World Series by Renault round at Paul Ricard
HTTT (France)
October 8-9 Renault 4 display at the World Series by Renault round in Catalonia
(Spain)
October 8-16 Renault 4 display at the Lyons Motor Show (France)
November 19-20 Renault 4 display at Rétromobile Show
November Renault 4 display at the Toulouse Motor Show (France)
November Renault 4 display at the Epoqu'Auto Show (France)
November-December Renault 4 display at the French Musée National de l'Automobile in
Mulhouse

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RENAULT 4 – 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

The Renault 4 in brief

The Renault 4 in detail

Appendix 1: - The Renault 4 at the cinema and on TV

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

The Renault 4 celebrates its 50th anniversary

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

The Modulo 4 Exhibition

Three Renault 4s on the 2011 historic Rallye Monte-Carlo

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Rétromobile classic car show (Paris)

Renault 4 Miss Sixty

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

First public appearances:

Number of countries where the model was manufactured/assembled:

Number of countries where the model was marketed:

Total number of vehicles produced:

Names and nicknames of the Renault 4

2 Models no longer in production.

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Brief Renault 4 timeline

1965 The R4 officially becomes the Renault 4.

1966 Launch of Renault's "Les Routes du Monde" operation (ended in 1984).

1974 (September): introduction of the plastic grille.

1985 The threshold of seven million Renault 4 sales is exceeded.

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Limited editions and special versions

1963 Sinpar four-wheel drive versions (until the end of production)

1968 Plein Air

1970 Rodeo, an R4 derivative manufactured by ACL

1975 Safari limited edition

1981 JP4, an R4 derivative produced by CAR Système

1982 Shopping limited edition (300 vehicles, produced in Belgium)

1985 Sixties limited edition (2,200 vehicles)

1991 Cartes Jeunes limited edition

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Renault 4, the "blue jeans" car

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

The blue jeans car and technical revolution

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Marie Chantal sends her regards

"Take the wheel!"

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Renault 4, an international calling

The R4 in the Common Market

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

From exports to local assembly

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Renault 4 production across the world

Built and sold on all five continents

Renault 4 production outside France

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Specific characteristics of Belgian versions:

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Particular features of Spanish Renault 4s:

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Particular features of "Guarda" Renault 4s:

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4

Renault Histoire & Collection / Dossier de presse – 50 ans de la Renault 4